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Are Dogs Helping Reduce Stress in Uncertain Times? The Answer Is Yes!

Posted on July 15, 2020October 16, 2020 by Above1 Support

The Covid-19 pandemic has caused unprecedented levels of stress for people across the world. There is no need to explain this any further, as you surely know what we mean. However, all this disruption has had at least one positive consequence: over the past couple of months, the number of pets being adopted has hit an all-time high. So much so, that some animal shelters have even been left completely empty.

While many of these same animal shelters were worried that the increased number of adoptions will result in increased numbers of surrendered pets shortly after, so far it hasn’t happened. The reason for this is simple: dealing with all of this uncertainty is simply easier with a dog by your side. You don’t have to take our word for it, though. Today, we’ll talk about all the ways dogs help us deal with stressful situations that have been proven by many scientific studies.

Scientifically Proven Benefits Of Having A Dog

“With rising healthcare costs, the positive effects of dogs on our overall health and their role in assisting in the work of healthcare professionals continue to be avid areas of scientific study” – Dr Kath Dench – Veterinarian Advisor at The Gentle Dog Trainers.

A summary of research shown listed below by HABRI – Human Animal Bond Research Institute , highlights the many proven health benefits of dog ownership

“Healthy aging is a lifelong process of making healthy decisions and lifestyle choices. Ensuring physical health at every stage of life helps us live longer and reduces risk of illness, disability and death. A significant body of literature has demonstrated the positive relationship between pet ownership and physical health, including increased physical activity and cardiovascular health.” – HABRI

But what exactly does this mean? Well, here are 4 concrete ways in which our canine companions make us better at dealing with tough situations:

1. Dogs Make Us More Resilient To Stressful Situations

Have you ever noticed you feel calmer when you are around your dog? Well, studies have shown it’s more than a subjective feeling. Many studies, for example, have confirmed that just being around a friendly dog helps reduce your blood pressure – which is a common reaction to highly stressful situations. Other studies have shown that simply stroking an animal lowers our heart rate and makes us more calm – and there is no need to mention that dogs enjoy this too! Being around dogs also reduces levels of cortisol, which is another strong indicator of stress.

2. Pets Make Us Better At Social Interaction

Interacting with your dog is, arguably, a form of social interaction. However, this is actually not the only way dogs help us be more social. For example, studies have shown that humans accompanied by pets tend to appear more approachable and trustworthy. Not only this, but having a pet tends to make us feel less lonely, less aggressive, and more empathetic towards other people.

3. Dog Owners Get More Exercise

Although it’s hard to prove this, due to many variables involved in every human’s life, there are strong indications that pet parents have better mental and physical health than those without pets. Go figure! But how is this possible?

Well, there is at least one simple explanation. Dog owners simply tend to get more exercise, on average, than people without pets. During the pandemic, long walks with your dog might not be always an option, but there are still activities you can do together with your pet. Enjoying a game of catch with your dog can be a pleasant and healthy activity for both of you.

4. Dogs Simply Make Us Happier

After reviewing a sea of previous research, the study from Frontiers in Psychology concludes that interaction in dogs must have all of these positive effects because it stimulates the production of oxytocin – the hormone of happiness and love. There are countless reports of dogs helping patients suffering from depression and anxiety. These days, we all might be dealing with this kind of feelings, and having a canine companion definitely helps!

Final Thoughts

In the year 2020, the way we live has changed in ways we could not have imagined, and some speculate it might be changed forever. In any case, we are facing a lot of uncertainty, and having a faithful companion that is always there for us is a real blessing. There is no doubt – dogs help us deal with stressful situations in so many ways. They provide companionship, make us feel less lonely, and help us be in the moment. Not to mention that simply taking care of another living being is an incredibly fulfilling experience.

The Average Cost for Dog Teeth Cleaning

Posted on July 15, 2020October 16, 2020 by Above1 Support

Ah, the joys of dog ownership. Collecting little baggies of fun on your daily walks, apologizing to the neighbor for the loud barking your furry friend lets out whenever he sees a (shhh! Don’t say it!) squirrel, and, of course, brushing his teeth. There are many wonderful moments provided by your pooch, but the time spent in doggie dental care might not rank high on your list of favorites. Which is why most owners (gulp) tend to skip it. There are so many questions: “How do you brush dog teeth?” “What do you use for dog teeth cleaner?”

The fact of the matter is this: your dog’s overall health depends on the health of his teeth. Sounds crazy, but just like with humans, poor dental health can cause a wealth of other health problems , including heart, liver and kidney disease. So, of course, it’s critical that you incorporate dental care into your dog care routine (including brushing your dog’s teeth and offering toys and treats that promote good dental health ), but it’s also important to schedule a dental cleaning with your veterinarian.

What is the cost of dog teeth cleaning? How much does it cost to have your dog’s teeth cleaned? And how often should you have your dog’s teeth cleaned? First, let’s talk about what is involved in a dog dental cleaning.

What Happens During a Dog Dental Cleaning?

Exam, X-Rays and Bloodwork

As with any procedure, a dog dental cleaning begins with a thorough examination by your veterinarian and x-rays of the mouth are taken to asses any damage beneath the gumline. Because a dog must be sedated to undergo this type of treatment (and really, who wouldn’t want to be a little sedated at the dentist?), most veterinarians require a bloodwork panel to check for anything that might cause a negative reaction to anesthesia. Your dog must be healthy enough to be sedated to be treated, so don’t skimp on this important step. Also keep in mind that with any anesthesia, fasting is typically required for some time before the procedure, so make sure to follow your vet’s instructions about removing food and water from your pooch for the allotted time prior to the cleaning.

The Cleaning

After your buddy has been deemed ready, anesthesia will be administered, and the cleaning begins. First, a technician will remove any large pieces of tartar (that gross white, brown, yellow, or orange material that gathers on the teeth). After the tartar is scraped away, the teeth are analyzed for signs of infection or disease and a decision is made regarding the best course of action, such as whether there are any teeth that need to be removed. Once any of the more serious issues are addressed, the plaque removal begins, typically done with an ultrasonic scaler (a dental tool that vibrates at a high speed). Most plaque is made of bacteria, so leaving it below the gum line is a quick route to gum disease for your pup. An infection here can spread through the blood stream to the heart, kidneys, or liver, so removing this plaque is the most important step of the dental cleaning. Dental probes are then used to measure the depth of the pockets between the tooth and the gum; deep pockets here indicate periodontal disease. The teeth are then polished and treated with fluoride, which helps prevent future tartar and plaque build-up. Sometimes after this step, a sealant is applied to the teeth that helps keep out future tarter and plaque. Finally, your fur baby will spend a little time in recovery and then will need plenty of love and kisses once returning home. When considering the described treatment here, remember that every veterinarian practices differently, so talk with your vet about what to expect.

What is the Cost of a Dog Teeth Cleaning?

The simple answer is anywhere from $150 to $500 without extractions, which is a pretty big range. While prices will vary from vet to vet, there are a few factors that play into the cost of the procedure, including:

Your Dog’s Weight
This seems like a simple factor, but a heavier pet will require higher dosages of all medication, including anesthesia, all of which adds on to the cost of dog teeth cleaning.
Your Dog’s Age
Older dogs may require more extensive pre-procedure bloodwork and screening, which may end up costing more.
Existing Dental Damage
Once your veterinarian has cleaned away the tartar and plaque, she can take a better look at the current state of the teeth and will have a clearer picture of decay or disease. At this point in the procedure, it may be necessary to extract teeth that have gone beyond repair, and these extractions will incur an additional fee, sometimes well into the thousands. It’s a good idea to talk over potential these additional costs with your vet prior to the cleaning so that you’re not blindsided with a bill after the fact.
Medication
Post-cleaning medication may be required, including antibiotics to prevent infection or painkillers for post-extraction ache.

How Often Should Your Dog Have a Dental Cleaning?

Well, this all depends on you. The experts recommend a dental cleaning every six months to a year, but that time could be extended if you are caring for your dog’s dental health on a consistent basis. This means brushing at least every other day , providing your buddy with toys that help clean the teeth, and offering treats that clean your dog’s teeth . What better way to help lower the cost of dog teeth cleaning?

Keeping your dog’s teeth clean doesn’t have to feel like a chore when you can offer Whimzees as a fun and delicious way to clean. Whimzees dental treats offer the best way to keep your dog’s dental cleanings fewer and farther between, helping to prevent the plaque and tartar that requires a professional cleaning. Try Brushzees for the ultimate in dog dental care, with a unique design that offers fresher breath and cleaner teeth.

Is Your Cat a Couch Potato? 5 Ways to Give Her Mental and Physical Stimulation

Posted on June 26, 2020December 17, 2020 by Above1 Support

Cats do nap a lot. But extended napping could be sheer boredom. Contrary to the assertion that they are aloof and independent, cats do like to engage with their favorite people. Here are some quick fixes to offer your kitty both mental and physical stimulation and, at the same time, boost your quality time together.

1. Tricks and Treats

Believe it or not, felines will work for praise and tasty rewards. Consequently, clicker training works well with cats.

Let’s Start with “Sit”

Hold a treat low above her head, just far back enough so that in order to reach it, she has to sit. Say “sit” as you are performing this action and offer lots of praise when she does. And, of course, give the treat!

Teaching her to sit on command is a plus to get her to wait patiently for her food bowl instead of winding around your legs and getting underfoot. That way, you are actually spending quality time together at mealtimes. Cats are fast learners and repetition will soon have her sitting on command without the treat.

Kitty High Five

Photo by Jonas Vincent on Unsplash

Once she’s sitting on command, you can move on to this simple trick that will certainly impress.

To teach the high five “slap,” wiggle your fingers and move your hand in front of her paw on the ground. When she pats your fingers with her paw, click and treat.

When she’s consistently patting your moving fingers, slowly raise your hand off the ground until its up in the air aligned with her shoulder height. When the cat raises its paw, put your hand in the path of the movement and click the instant the paw touches your hand.

Next move your hand slightly so the cat has to aim for your hand with its paw to get clicked and treated. Finally, add a cue such as “high five” or “paw up” when you hold out your hand. Click and treat.

Choosing her favorite treat will of course be an added incentive. Stock up on her favorite Wellness Kittles. They are all natural, grain-free, crunchy and only contain 2 calories per treat so they are perfect for training. Flavors include chicken, duck, tuna, salmon, turkey and whitefish, all with healthy cranberries.

Clicker training can be used to teach cats all kinds of fun tricks including playing Three Blind Mice on a piano. It’s a great way to spend quality time together.

2. Let the Indoor Hunt Begin

Cats in the wild are used to hunting and working for food. So, set up a treasure hunt in your home by hiding treats and some favorite catnip-filled and kicker-styled toys in different locations. Include toys that roll and wriggle too so that your cat has lots to discover in her own time. This is a great way to prevent boredom and keep felines engaged and ‘on the hunt’ especially when they are home alone.

There is also a great selection of specially designed cat puzzle toys and treat balls which are ideal for hiding scrumptious morsels and offer excellent stimulation as felines work out how to retrieve them.

3. Wind It Up with Wands

Wand games are a great way to engage your feline and spend quality time with her too. Actively engage her with a wand toy making sure you always swing sideways like a pendulum so that she doesn’t pounce forward and inadvertently scratch you. A wand should be light weight so it’s easy for you to play with too. Cats are attracted to those with realistic bugs or furry, feathery critters on the end. Games don’t have to be only airborne. Many cats enjoy watching the toy being trailed along the ground so they can pounce on it. When she has the critter firmly under her paw, wriggle the string gently so that it moves. When she releases it, then swing it in the air to start the games again. Often cats will pick up the wand (from the toy end) and carry it over to engage you in more games. If you throw it a short distance, you can encourage her to run after it and retrieve it and bring it back for more.

4. A Room with A View

Photo by Stephanie Harvey on Unsplash

There is nothing like a nice tall cat condo, strategically placed at a window to keep your cats in engaged in observing outdoor activities whether its birds flying by, people walking and even cars coming and going. Apart from the outdoor view, cats really enjoy vertical space as it offers them a personal space to watch the activity in the room too as well as a place to escape to from other household pets for a snooze.

5. Leash walks Versus a Cat Stroller

Photo by Emily Nettleton on Unsplash

Training a cat to walk on a leash is a great way to enrich her lifestyle by safely allowing her to enjoy the sights and sounds of the great outdoors. It’s also an excellent way of revving up her exercise routine.

However, a cat’s personality will play an important role in deciding if she is game for a fresh air challenge. An adventurous cat will probably embrace this opportunity to sniff around outside and even stop and lie down to survey her surroundings. While skittish scaredy cats may resist, preferring the view from the kitty condo instead. It also depends on your neighborhood. If there are lots of dogs out and about on the route, or you live in a neighborhood where coyotes roam even in the day time, consider a cat stroller as an outdoor alternative.

They are an excellent option for a change of scenery. You can even stop and sit on a bench and let her watch the world go by. Cats, if they are allowed outside on their own will often go and hang out under a bush and watch insects, butterflies and birds from this vantage point. And they can do exactly the same thing from the comfort and safety of a stroller.

It’s also a great way to get you to spend time with her and out and about too!

8 Top Photography Tips for Pet Photo Challenges

Posted on June 24, 2020December 15, 2020 by Above1 Support

With the increase in social media accounts just for pets, and fun social media photographic and video challenges, cats and dogs are turning into internet sensations. Whether you are planning to join in the fun, or simply want to take some great pix for the family photo album, here are some photographic tips to capture some memorable entertainment.Before you start, be sure to stock up on treats in order to offer tasty rewards for their efforts!

1. Action Ready

Smart phones have very sophisticated built-in photographic, editing and enhancement features. So, it’s very easy to always be camera ready to capture funny pet antics and then crop and re-touch before posting. Knowing your phone’s settings from portrait to panorama and its basic lighting features are a good place to start.

2. Backgrounds That Can Enhance

If you’re planning a photo session with your dog or cat, keep the area clear of clutter. And, if you planning to introduce a background material or throw, choose something that will show off your pet’s fur coloring to its best advantage. If possible, “dress up” a favorite snooze place where you pet is comfortable instead of trying to entice them over to less familiar area of your home.

3. Getting Creative from the Ground Up

Get down to your fur kid’s level, even if it means lying down on the ground. This is a great way to also learn about your pet’s world from their perspective. Even if your pooch or feline isn’t looking directly at the lens just keep snapping! You will be pleasantly surprised with the expressions that can be captured.

Further, experiment with interesting angles by moving around. Stand on a chair and shoot directly down. Lie on your back and try to capture your cat peering over the edge of her kitty condo. Consider both vertical and horizontal shots. And, if you have a glass-topped table, and taking their weight into account from a safety stand point, place your cat or small dog on the surface and lie underneath to snap away.

Positioning your feline or favorite pooch either one- or two-thirds across the screen, will instantly create an interesting composition too.

4. Let There Be Light

As any professional photographer will confirm, good photography is all about lighting. If your cat has an indoor lifestyle, try to position her so that she is bathed in natural light. However, don’t put her directly in front of a window because you’ll black out her features and create a silhouette. And be aware that a flash can give pets green eyes, the equivalent of red eyes in humans.

If your cat is leash-trained and you are able to take her outside for a photographic session, the best light is a bright overcast day because you won’t get shadows spoiling your shots. Planning a photographic session for early morning or late afternoon will also work well for similar reasons. If the sun is shining, try to keep it behind you. Use the flash outdoors too; it can help erase shadows.

5. Treats, Treats and Some Props …

To capture some really interesting shots, be sure to keep some tasty morsels handy to offer as scrumptious rewards. Cats will enjoy Wellness Kittles, natural, grain-free, crunchy cat treats. At only 2 calories per treat, Kittles are available in six flavors including chicken, turkey, whitefish, salmon, tuna and duck and all contain healthy cranberries.

Pups love soft, meaty WellBites or crunchy, oven-baked WellBars offering pets a healthy treat in a variety of favorite flavors such as chicken and cheddar cheese and peanuts and honey.

Also work with props just off-camera vision. All cats will respond to visual stimuli such as a laser beam or their favorite feathered toy on a wand. Even a piece of string will create some lively actions and reactions. You will certainly get your dog’s attention if someone holds a tennis ball (or treat) off camera at different angles.

6. Love Is in The Peanut Butter

Putting some catnip around your camera lens will “reel in” a feline for some fun and quirky close-ups. And, if you have two pets that get on well together, rub a bit of butter or peanut butter behind the ears of the more obliging pet and encourage the other to try and clean it off, making it look as if they are kissing and cuddling.

7. Is Your Pet the Next Video Star?

Smart phones have capabilities to produce excellent video footage too. Social media has given pets a platform to share their opinions and it can be fun to create a talking dog public-service-styled announcement like Pluto the Schnauzer, who uses her YouTube channel to advise humans how to handle Coronavirus issues.

There are Apps and video software designed to produce such fun footage. Alternatively, you can get creative by filming 15 – 20 minutes of your cat meowing or your dog chewing or barking. Upload the footage to a video editing program on your computer and select one to three minutes of the best footage. Write a brief script. Add it to the footage by “stretching out the footage” into play-by-play seconds in the editing process, and, using the computer’s microphone to record your audio onto the footage.

Currently, DogTV, the 24/7 digital TV channel scientifically developed for dogs, is looking for talent for their new show DOGSTAR featuring user-generated videos of furry friends. Check them out for a chance to be featured and win a subscription to watch your pets in action entertaining others from your own couch. One of the video categories focuses on “dogs at home”.

8. Rise to the Challenge

There are lots of fun pet challenges circulating on social media. the latest hilarious viral cat vs. dog challenge which shows how differently cats and dogs deal with obstacles placed in their way.

The Getty Museum also has a very creative challenge inviting people to recreate iconic artworks using just three objects lying around home. And pets make great subjects. Check the hashtags #betweenartandquarantine and #tussenkunstenquarataine on Twitter and Instagram.

And of course, we’d love to see how creative you are with your fur kids enjoying treats or their favorite food. Please share your photos with us by tagging #wellnesspetfood and @wellnesspetfood for a chance to be featured on our website or social pages!

9 Times Dogs Saved Us During Quarantine

Posted on May 15, 2020December 17, 2020 by Above1 Support

During this time of uncertainty as the COVID-19 virus stretches across the globe, many are turning to their dogs for emotional support. Here are a 9 heartwarming stories of dogs coming to rescue their owners from sadness, fear and anxiety,

1. Autism service dog calms owner having panic attack

Marley is a trained autism service dog. In this video, his owner is having an anxiety attack. Marley stays by her side and slowly begins to step in as the attack becomes worse. While Marley’s owner tries to push Marley away, Marley jumps up on her lap and hugs her to which Marley’s owner hugs back. It’s moments like these that remind us dogs are so much more than animals. They are compassionate beings that want us free from suffering.

2. How Daisy has turned into my family’s comfort dog during the pandemic

While we may not be able to hug others during this time of quarantine and social distancing, our pets are stepping in for support. For the Biemer family, their dog Daisy has been a support for not only mom Joanne, but her three grade-school-aged kids who are now at home indefinitely. Daisy gets the family out of the house for long walks, eats dinner with the “pack” and snuggles up for movie nights and bedtime routines.

3. How one therapy dog is going virtual to support neglected kids

A special pup named Jordan is helping kids at the Kid’s House in Seminole Country, Florida. Kids House is a center for abused and neglected children offering a safe space for kids to play and heal. Dogs, offering unconditional love, is something these kids desperately need, says the staff. Jordan is that source of joy for everyone at Kid’s House.

Because of the pandemic, Kid’s House is working through teleconferencing to ensure their kids maintain therapy routines and are staying safe. Jordan is present for those calls and kids are instructed to pet their stuffed animals just as they would Jordan. Jordan has also been a huge support to the staff during this trying time, going to them for a hug or snuggle when things get tense.

4. Dog providing stress relief to elderly during pandemic

In Nebraska, the K-9 Comfort Dog Ministry is getting their furry friends out to as many elderly people as possible to provide comfort and solace during these uncertain times. While residents at Greene Place senior living cannot pet the dogs at this time due to safety guidelines, they still get weekly visits where they can see their good friend Nico through their windows, bringing comfort and familiarity to the hearts of all.

Staff says seeing Nico is a connection to normalcy and something for residents to look forward to each week. Nico will say a big hello from the porch, giving residents a moment of peace during this trying time.

5. Therapy dog at Massachusetts General Hospital brings comfort during coronavirus pandemic

Eduardo is a therapy dog at Massachusetts General Hospital. It’s his job to cheer up patients and staff, and right now, he’s working overtime. He brings smiles to everyone he sees acting as a reminder of hope during long days and even longer nights.

Meet Ed (Eduardo), one of Massachusetts General Hospital’s therapy dogs. Our therapy dogs are “paw-fect” companions and have a very important job of comforting our patients and staff members. If you have a pet comforting you during this time of isolation, share a picture! pic.twitter.com/bY0LrQiB12
— MGH Cancer Center (@MGHCancerCenter) April 19, 2020

Eduardo makes his rounds, visiting staff and sick patients which gives everyone a sense of relief when they see his face. His main message is to remember that social distancing is important and to share your own “paw-fect” companion stories on social media.

6. Canine Companions service dogs helping their humans through pandemic

Located in Jacksonville, Florida, St. Augustine Rehab Specialists work with Parkinson’s patients on a daily basis, an illness that is already weighing on patients’ minds, but with the outbreak of COVID-19, anxiety fills the center.

Enter Harley, a 3-year-old pup who is a reminder of hope, peace, and joy. His job is to take patients’ minds off their illness, away from the virus and help them focus on living a full life without fear. Harley’s owner, physical therapist Melanie Lomaglio, sees a vast difference in her patients when Harley is around. During patient sessions, Harley helps patients forget the outside world and focus on health and happiness.

7. A service dog in training supports hospital staff during coronavirus

Credit: News 4 Jax

In Denver, Colorado, Dr. Susan Ryan works in the Rose Medical Center ER treating COVID patients around the clock. While the team is working hard to save lives, Wynn, Ryan’s therapy dog in training, has become their savior.

Ryan brings Wynn to work each day, but in these stressful times, Wynn has become a godsend. Petting Wynn calms the staff and first responders. Wynn is currently in training with Canine Companions for Independence to become a licensed therapy dog, but she is already well on her way to that title.

8. Forlorn dog finds new purpose

AP Photo/Michael Liedtke

Michael Liedtke suffered multiple loses in a two-week span, including the death of his father and dog Surfer. News of the pandemic was another unwelcomed conflict, and even though he felt it was toon soon after Surfer’s death, he knew he had to make a move.

Michael and family adopted Wookiee, a 3-year-old Surfer doppelganger. Immediately, levity was brought to the family, including the kids who feel Wookiee is a new constant since school and play are no longer viable options. While this family has brought stability and comfort to Wookiee, Wookiee has done the same and more for them.

9. Dogs could join the fight against COVID-19

In the UK, medical detection dogs are being used to try and smell the virus. With recent success in teaching dogs to sniff out malaria, there is hope that dogs could be able to smell the COVID-19 virus. If it works, this could be a game changer for reopening the economy around the world!

Whether we are a veteran pet owner, a new foster pet parent or we gather joy from watching pet videos online, animals are stepping up during this time of need to help foster mental health and wellness for all. If you have a pet story to tell, put #StayPawsitive on your next social media post and share your joy with the world.

How to Safely Foster a Pet During Quarantine

Posted on May 5, 2020October 19, 2020 by Above1 Support

With the impact of the COVID-19 virus came a wave of lockdown orders and voluntary sheltering in place. Staying inside can feel suffocating, especially for those who live alone or suffer from mental health issues/chronic health illnesses, but there is something we can do to bring joy into our daily lives—get a pet!

Pets have been proven to support their owner’s emotional needs, provide purpose and foster stability. Recently, thousands of people have adopted and fostered furry friends across the nation. Shelters are emptying at high rates because people know that pets equal love and support.

Maybe you aren’t ready to adopt. A great short-term alternative to adopting is becoming a foster pet parent. Fostering a pet follows the same concept as fostering a child. You will work with a shelter to find a good match and bring home your furry friend for a specific amount of time. The length of stay will depend on various factors, so be sure to work with the shelter to understand the maximum amount of time your pet will stay with you.

Fostering is a win-win. Your furry friend gets out of the shelter, and you have a new companion during a stressful and trying time. If you haven’t already and you have the means, consider fostering during this time of need; however, be sure to inquire how long the fostering will last, especially if you know your return to work date. Be open about your time frame and your needs to ensure fostering works well for you.

Starting the Process

When considering fostering during a pandemic where social distancing is the norm, you’ll have to get creative when it comes to the fostering process. Speak to the shelters in your area that offer foster programs and work with them to find the best way to safely foster a pet during this time. The goal is to have the least amount of contact with others as possible which means utilizing technology is key. Work with the staff over the phone, file paperwork through email and even conduct video meetings with staff and furry friends when possible.

While this is an exciting time to acquire a furry friend, remember that we are in a state of emergency. Ensure you and the shelter are doing everything you both can to stay safe and healthy.

Preparing for Your Pet

While you may be able to bring your pet home with limited social interaction, there are a few other things to keep in mind. If you haven’t previously owned a pet, you’ll need to stock your house with the necessary items. At an essential level, cats will need a litter box with litter and scooper, ample food, and a few toys. For dogs, you will need a leash for walks, food/food bowls and toys for entertainment. If possible, things like pet beds, blankets, and treats are a welcoming nod to new furry roommates, but only seek to acquire these items if you can do so safely.

To obtain your basic pet care package, you have a few options. Often times, shelters have basic care kits which include most or if not all of these essential items. You could ask that these items are put aside and given to you when you pick up your furry friend, and you could pay with your credit card over the phone to ensure limited interaction.

Bringing Your Pet Home

While becoming a foster pet parent is an exciting milestone, we need to ensure everyone stays safe. When you go to pick up your pet, be sure to follow the correct protocol put in place by your state. Wear a mask, always stay six feet away from others and wash your hands before and after the interaction. Work with your shelter to devise a plan on how they will get your pet and your items to you in a safe way. You could have them load your car, or you could have them place all items outside the shelter where you can drive up and easily place everything in the car yourself.

When you get home, be sure to disinfect all items you bring into your home. Wipe down transport boxes/carriers and all other items purchased from the shelter/stores. You can also give your pet a bath to ensure nothing has been transmitted. When you are finished, be sure to wash your hands and discard/wash your mask. While this placement is only temporary, the loving memories you make will last a lifetime for you and your furry friend.

Fostering a pet at any time is such a monumental moment in a person’s and a pet’s life. Here at Wellness Pet Food we are committed to making the world a better place for pets everywhere. That’s why we started the Wellness Foundation, with a mission that goes beyond nutrition to help pets be #RaisedWithLove. As the Official Pet Food Partner of Best Friends, we are proud to provide natural pet food for the animals they rescue, so they have access to the healthiest nutrition possible.

4 Eco-Friendly Activities to Do with Pets at Home

Posted on April 20, 2020October 19, 2020 by Above1 Support

This year’s Earth Month celebrations may look a little different for pet parents, but did you know slowing down and staying close to home can have a positive impact on the environment?

Think about it: There are fewer cars on the road, we take more steps on foot, are more mindful of the things we buy and have the time and space for activities with a light foot (or, paw) print.

Our furry family members love us unconditionally and are so happy to spend more time with their people! Here are some low-impact activities you can take up with your pet by your side:

1. Plant a pet-friendly garden

Now’s a great time to weed, turn over and clean out your garden plots to make room for new growth this spring! Vegetables, fruit bushes, flower beds…the possibilities are endless. If you have a safe, fenced-in outdoor space, your pet will love time in the sun while you work.

Pets and plants don’t always get along, though, so creating balance ensures the two live in harmony. Check out How to Plant a Pet Friendly Garden This Spring for more.

2. Stay active outdoors

In times of in-office work and school, we’d de-stress by looking at images of nature, which can have the same calming effects on the brain as being in nature. With that, just think of how powerful actually being outside can be for your mental health and the wellness of your pet!

Sitting outside and taking walks with your pet are wonderful opportunities to connect with the world and check in with the mind and body. To ensure you leave your path better than you found it, see these 5 Ways to Make Outdoor Excursions with Your Pet More Eco-Friendly. And while we are quarantining, remember to always follow social distancing guidelines. That said, you may need to slightly adjust your outdoor-time approach.

3. Get crafty with a Do-It-Yourself project

Now that you get to spend all this lovely time with your furry family member(s), showering them with attention might bring to mind new toys, collars and other accessories. Instead of buying new, take this opportunity to slow down and get creative by upcycling items you already have into treats your pets will love.

Turn old t-shirts into a ball toss toy for your dog, and toilet paper rolls into a lightweight ball for your cat. You can even make everyday items out of empty Wellness Pet Food packaging, such as a water bowl, treat holder, or a cute little cape for your mighty mutt!

4. Keep recycling Wellness pet food and treat packaging

Now more than ever, recycling is an eco-activity that lowers your carbon footprint and protects the planet for future generations of pets! All Wellness dry food and treat flexible plastic packaging can be easily recycled through our free TerraCycle program. Just join, collect and download a prepaid label from your account.

Bonus: the more you recycle, the more points you earn in exchange for a cash donation to your favorite pet charity or nonprofit organization.

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Looking for more ways to make a difference while palling around with your pets? Check out How to be an Environmentally Conscious Pet Parent.

To Our Fellow Pet Parents:

Posted on March 30, 2020October 20, 2020 by Above1 Support

March 30, 2020

To our fellow pet parents,

Our Wellness family, including all the pets who enjoy our food are located all over the world, so you can trust us to be here for you, as we remain committed to supporting your pets’ nutrition.

I’d like to take a moment to recognize our Wellies who are doing extraordinary work to make sure your pets have their favorite food. Even as the demand on us to supply food is great, we are dedicated to the health and safety of our employees and to ensure that we continue to maintain the highest quality standards of pet food production.

We know this is a concerning time, and so I want to share steps we’re taking to keep our team safe and to continue to deliver the highest quality food:

•   We have adjusted operations so that our non-production employees are all working from home
•   Flexible hours are available for our employees who are managing things like school and childcare facility closures
•   Our production facilities are limited to essential personnel only
•   We are staggering production shifts to protect our employees, setting up additional break rooms and maintaining social distancing
•   While we’re always vigilant about sanitation, we have significantly enhanced these protocols and implemented CDC recommendations to keep our sites and employees safe
•   All of our employees receive paid leave and sick time benefits

Given these important updates, you will continue to be able to find the products you need and your pets enjoy. If we can help you find a product, or if you have any questions at all, don’t hesitate to reach out to our Consumer Affairs team at 800-225-0904, info@wellpet.com or on social media via Facebook, Twitter or Instagram. Please continue to support pet specialty retailers, many are now offering curbside pick up, home delivery and online shopping.

Wellness is also supporting the wellbeing of pets through our Wellness Foundation, by supplying pet food where it is needed within the Best Friends Animal Society shelter network. If you are looking for ways to help pets during this crisis, check out this link from our blog for a few ideas.

We appreciate your loyalty to Wellness and our family of brands. Our thoughts are with those who have been impacted.

Our dogs and cats are a source of comfort every day, but now more than ever they are helping ground us and give us hope during this crisis. We will get through this together.

Stay well and take care,

Camelle Kent

CEO, Wellness Natural Pet Food, a member of the WellPet family of brands

How to Avoid Overfeeding Our Pets When We Are Home

Posted on March 26, 2020October 19, 2020 by Above1 Support

Whether you work from home or are currently transitioning to a home-based work environment due to the current pandemic, there is a lot to consider when it comes to our pets. It may seem silly but interacting with our pets should be on the list of items to consider when creating a home office because spending more time at home can warrant behavior changes and disruption at mealtime for our furry friends.

If you aren’t home all day, you’re probably unaware of what your pet’s routine is like (unless you spy on them with a pet cam). Because you aren’t there, they have to fend for themselves. This is why behavior disruption can take place when you spend more time with your pets. If you start to work from home, your pet will look to you for attention, affection and food. And the more you’re around, the more they will seek to gain. These behaviors may seem harmless at first, but it’s important to ensure you react to them appropriately by keeping their health and wellness a top priority.

Avoiding Overfeeding at Mealtime

When humans are home more, a common issue tends to be overfeeding. Overfeeding can occur in two ways: mealtime and treats. When it comes to mealtime, you want to stick to a routine that works for everyone involved. If you don’t have a set work schedule at home, create one. The more routine you can create, the less likely your pet will be to beg for food or treats. Try to feed your pet at the same time every morning and night to show them there is a proper time to eat. This will help cut down on begging and other negative behaviors.

Avoid Overfeeding Treats

While you may have mealtimes set in stone, another way our pets trick us into getting more is through treats. Just like scheduling mealtime, set up a treat schedule with your pet. If you normally offer treats after you walk your dog or to your cat after playtime, stay consistent, but if those behaviors happen more frequently, be aware of the extra treats that are being served.

If you don’t have a treat schedule, consider creating one. You may not realize how many treats you are offering. Keeping a tally directly on the treat bag is a great way to track and monitor your pet’s intake.

If you are often home and like to offer your pet treats, look for some low calorie options especially if they are unable to receive excessive time to exercise. All Wellness treats are made with healthy, natural ingredients, so you know your pet is getting some nutrition while enjoying a delicious snack.

For our feline friends, check out Kittles. These grain-free treats offer a variety of irresistible flavors and are only 2 calories per treat. With all-natural ingredients and teeth cleaning goodness, these treats will keep everyone happy.

The Nutritional Cost

We may love our fur babies, but if we don’t monitor and control what they are eating and how much, we can set them up for future health complications. Overfeeding can cause overweight animals that are more prone to arthritis, heart and kidney disease, cancer, and more. Love your pet with kisses, hugs, and your time, not with food.

Alternative Options

Just like us humans, when pets are bored, they get hungry. If you have more time at home, spend some of it with your furry friend. Take your pup out for a walk, drag a feather toy and play with your cat and if you’re working from home, schedule in some time to ensure your pet feels loved and cared for. This is especially necessary if they are not used to having you home. Create boundaries when it comes time to work but use your breaks to show them you care. If you take the time to show them attention before you start your day, they will give you the peace and quiet you need to complete your tasks.

The bottom line here: don’t give in. They will whine and beg, but you have to stay strong if you want to break the behavior. Remember, your pets are fine all day at home without you. Don’t let them make you think otherwise. Create a schedule and stick to it. This is the best way to love your pet.

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Date:

26/03/2020